Epidural anesthesia is initiated for a primigravida at 40 weeks gestation who is in active labor. Which assessment has the greatest priority for the practical nurse to monitor during the administration of epidural anesthesia?
Level of pain sensation.
Maternal blood pressure (BP).
Infusion pump and IV site.
Variability of fetal heart rate.
The Correct Answer is B
The greatest priority for the practical nurse to monitor during the administration of epidural anesthesia is maternal blood pressure (BP). Epidural anesthesia can cause maternal hypotension due to vasodilation and decreased venous return, which can result in decreased fetal perfusion and oxygenation. Therefore, it is important for the practical nurse to monitor maternal BP frequently and promptly report any significant changes to the healthcare provider. Options A, C, and D are also important assessments, but they are not the priority in this scenario.
Therefore, options A, C, and D are not answers because they are not the priority assessment during the administration of epidural anesthesia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
If the practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client who delivered 6 hours ago and assessment findings reveal a boggy uterus that is displaced above and to the right of the umbilicus, the PN should encourage the client to void. A full bladder can displace the uterus and prevent it from contracting properly, leading to a boggy uterus. Encouraging the client to void can help empty the bladder and allow the uterus to contract and return to its normal position. The other actions listed may also be appropriate in some situations, but encouraging voiding is the most appropriate action in this situation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
During gastrostomy (GT) feedings for a newborn infant with a tracheo-esophageal repair, the practical nurse (PN) should offer a pacifier to satiate the sucking reflex associated with feedings. Sucking is a natural reflex for infants and providing a pacifier during feedings can help satisfy this need and promote comfort. The other interventions listed may also be important to implement during GT feedings, but offering a pacifier to satiate the sucking reflex is the most appropriate intervention in this situation.
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